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PEARL CITY NEIGHBORHOOD BOARD
DRAFT MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MAY 23, 2006
HIGHLANDS INTERMEDIATE SCHOOL CAFETERIA
CALL TO ORDER: Chair Albert Fukushima called the meeting to order at 6:34 p.m., with a nine (9) members present, which established a quorum.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Sol Ray Duncan, Sheila Fukuda, Albert Fukushima, Kevin Furutani, David Howton, May Imamura-Uruu, Myrtle Nyuha, James Pickard, Sr., Davin Takahashi (arrived at 6:42 p.m.), Cruz Vina, Jr.
MEMBERS ABSENT: Jerilyn Anderton, Marin Bogema.
GUESTS: Firefighter N. Melo (Honolulu Fire Department Waiau Station); Lt. G. Arakawa, Lt. K. Lima (Honolulu Police Department Pearl City Station); Marcia Nagao (State Department of Health Disease Outbreak Control Division); Matt Miura (Verizon Wireless); Carl Young (Nextel Partners, Inc.); Lan Yoneda (Board of Water Supply); Pat Liu (Gentry Waiawa Development); Lance Parker (A & B Properties); Donohue Fujii (Austin Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc.); Dr. Melvin Wong; Scott Ishikawa (State Department of Transportation Spokesperson); Claire Nakamura (Governor's representative Deputy Director of the State Department of Public Safety); Isaac Hokama (Mayor's representative Special Assistant to the Mayor); Councilmember Gary Okino; Robert Sato (Councilmember Okino's Office staff); Kendall Matsuyoshi (Representative K. Mark Takai's Office staff); Gary K. Omori (Public Involvement Team for Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor Project); Bob Loy (Outdoor Circle); Kent Kitagawa (State Department of Health State Laboratories Division); Karen Ching-Hew, Joseph Dang, Ken Harmeyer, Gordon Kim, Frank Kobayashi, Aaron Lee, Adrian Lee, Mahro Madrid, Jr., Tim McLaurin, Alice Miynke, Julie Moix, Nathan Nakamoto, Jerry Ono, Jesse Ono, Zachary Orosco, Sandra Padua, Thaddeus Padua, Tony Padua, David Pang, Herbert S. M. Pang, Henry Wai, Jon Wai, Marissa Wai, Rachel Wai, James Walls, Terri Walls, Ahromi Wang, Mehi Wang, Pepper Wang, Setsuzo Yamashiro; Rachel M. Glanstein, Chad Kahale (Neighborhood Commission Office staff).
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Fukuda led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance.
APPOINTMENT TO FILL ONE (1) VACANCY: There were no interested parties to fill the vacancy.
REMINDERS OF TIME LIMIT POLICY AND PROCEDURES ON INPUT, COMMENTS, RESPONSES AND PRESENTATION OF AGENDA ITEMS: Chair Fukushima reminded everyone that smoking is not allowed on the school campus grounds. He summarized the time limit policy as follows ONE minute for comments; THREE minutes for reports; FIVE minutes for presentations already given at the Committee Meeting, TEN minutes for new presentations; ONE minute for comments/questions/responses; recognition from the Chair is required to speak; microphones should be used when speaking; all cell phones should be turned off or put in "silent" mode. Chair Fukushima asked government representatives to please limit their oral reports to one subject matter.
EMERGENCY AGENCY REPORTS:
HONOLULU FIRE DEPARTMENT (HFD) Firefighter N. Melo provided the following information:
1) April statistics 7 structure fires; 61 medical emergencies and 7 auto accidents.
2) Fire Safety Tip Prepare a fire escape plan. Map out escape routes with at least two ways out of each room. Designate a location outside of the house where everyone can meet. Know where the closest phone is located to call 911.
HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT (HPD) Lt. G. Arakawa circulated a report and gave the following statistics for April: There were 29 auto thefts, 16 auto theft recoveries, 13 burglaries, 30 criminal property damage and 35 unauthorized entries into motor vehicles (UEMVs). There was a total of 6,746 calls for service in District 3, with some 1,630 calls (24.16%) from the Pearl City area.
Herbert S. M. Pang expressed frustration over parked cars blocking driveways and having to constantly report them to HPD. Chair Fukushima reminded him of the one-minute time limit and asked everyone to be concise in their speeches due to the heavy agenda tonight. Lt. Arakawa assured that officers will respond if called it's their duty.
Davin Takahashi arrived during the above comments, at 6:42 p.m., making 10 members present.
EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICES (EMS) No representative present.
The agenda was taken out of order to hear Kendall Matsuyoshi give Representative K. Mark Takai's report, and to hear Councilmember Gary Okino's report.
ELECTED OFFICIALS (1):
REPRESENTATIVE K. MARK TAKAI Kendall Matsuyoshi reported the following information:
1) Sportsmen Lounge Rep. Takai is waiting for a liquor license renewal hearing to be scheduled.
2) Pearl Harbor Bike Path The Navy has been cleaning up the mangroves to curb illegal activities there. They began yesterday, May 22, and the clean-up will continue until the third week in June. There will be a minor inconvenience to those using that area of the bike path.
Chair Fukushima requested a summary of the Aiea-Pearl City town meeting last night, May 22. Matsuyoshi recommended that Councilmember Okino be asked that question, since he attended.
COUNCILMEMBER GARY OKINO Robert Sato distributed Councilmember Okino's report, and Councilmember Okino highlighted the following:
1) New tax credit applications are now available for the "circuit breaker", which has four conditions for eligibility: (a) there must be a home exemption on their property during the tax year claimed; (b) the combined income of all the titleholders may not exceed $50,000; (c) the amount of 2006-07 property taxes must exceed 4% of the combined income for all titleholders; and (d) neither the property owner nor any member of the owner's household may own any other property anywhere. Applications are available through September 30, 2006.
2) Pacific Palisades Community Park The road widening project is short $200,000, and he has asked Council for the money to continue.
3) Pearl City Gym The required repairs were not the fault of the roofing contractor they were the fault of the sub-roofing contractor, who now needs to repair the leaks.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Ken Harmeyer asked how the City can discuss raises for elected officials when the people are getting hit hard with the raise in property tax. Councilmember Okino replied that whatever is recommended by the Salary Commission is usually agreed to, and a $100,000 won't go very far if spread out among all of Hawaii's residents; he continued to note that tax relief is being discussed, but he won't know exactly what amounts until Thursday, May 25.
2) Pickard requested lights for the now open Pacific Palisades Community Park, since it is pitch black at night, making it impossible for anyone to use the basketball courts after dark. Councilmember Okino will follow up, but postulated that part of the $200,000 requested for the park could be used to install lighting.
3) Chair Fukushima inquired about the Aiea-Pearl City town meeting last night, May 22. Councilmember Okino responded that many of the issues raised for Aiea issues, but the number one Pearl City issue is the opening of Cane Haul Road. The Mayor is committed to the project, and gave $4.5 million to it; it should begin this year. Chair Fukushima clarified that the project only covers the first portion at this time, and thanked Councilmember Okino for getting funding for it.
The agenda was resumed.
PRESENTATIONS (1):
AWARDING OF CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Publicity/Refreshments (P/R) Committee Chair Imamura-Uruu presented certificates to the following:
1) Aaron Lee, a Pearl City Highlands Elementary School fourth grader, received an award for winning the Grade 4 "Written Word" category of the 2006 Kids Day Creativity Contest, with his essay entitled "Is Older Wiser?" His teacher, Karen Ching-Hew, received an award for mentoring him. Councilmember Okino presented Lee with a Council Certificate of Merit.
2) Julie Moix, a Highlands Intermediate School teacher and advisor to the chess team, received an award for mentoring the chess team in winning first place in the State Intermediate School Chess Tournament. Nathan Nakamoto, an eighth grader, received an award for the team winning first place in the tournament and for placing first overall and first in the eight grade division. Tyler Oho-Watt, Jesse Ono, Zachary Orosco, and Thaddeus Padua, all eighth graders, received awards for the team winning first place in the tournament and for performing at the top of their game. Marissa Wai, a seventh grader, received an award for the team winning first place in the tournament, for placing third overall and first in the seventh grade division, and for winning "Top Performer of the Year". Councilmember Okino presented the team and the individual students with Council Certificates of Merit.
3) Gayle Ching, the Pearl City High School Journalism faculty advisor, received an award for mentoring Ahromi Wang and Kristen Kaneshiro in the 37th Annual 2006 Hawaii High School Journalism Contest. Ahromi Wang, a senior, received an award for winning the $150 design award for the cover art of the contest program guide. Kristen Kaneshiro, a senior, received an award for winning the title of "Most Valuable Member" of the "Messenger" newspaper staff, as editor, in the contest. Councilmember Okino presented Wang and Kaneshiro with Council Certificates of Merit.
4) Kimberly Rivera, a Pearl City High School junior, received an award for winning a Pacific and Asian Affairs Council 2006 Summer Study Tour Scholarship. Brady Louis, a Pearl City High School Japanese language teacher, received an award for mentoring her, and will be her chaperone on the tour.
5) Gerald Suyama, the Pearl City High School Principal, received an award for being a semi-finalist in the 2006 Masayuki Tokioka Excellence in School Leadership Competition for the High School Principal of the Year and being granted a $2,000 personal cash award.
6) Seichi Nagai, Kenji Uejo and Shigeo Ushiro, the E Komo Mai Pearl City sign and landscape caretakers, received awards for being actively involved as diligent members of an unselfish group of volunteers who have proactively cleaned and maintained the "Gateway Entry area" on the mauka side of Moanalua Road near Hoomalu Street. Councilmember Okino expressed his appreciation to the group; he is working with the City Department of Facility Maintenance to install a water line there.
7) Rachel M. Glanstein, the Board's Neighborhood Assistant, received an award for exemplary and outstanding service to assist the Board in carrying out its goals of serving as a "Grass Roots" forum in the community to increase citizen participation in City government.
MAY 2006 YARD OF THE MONTH P/R Committee Chair Imamura-Uruu presented a Certificate of Recognition to James and Terri Walls of Komo Mai Drive in Pacific Palisades for being the May 2006 Yard of the Month Award recipient.
The agenda was taken out of order to hear the update on the Gentry-Waiawa project.
RESIDENTS' CONCERNS (1):
GENTRY-WAIAWA PROJECT UPDATE Pat Liu introduced Lance Parker, from A & B Properties, and briefly explained the project, which intends to build infrastructure and neighborhoods in the Gentry-Waiawa area. They are currently designing the entry roads and improvements necessary for the first increment, which includes homes, an elementary school, a park and a convenience center. They hope to break ground later this year.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Chair Fukushima expressed his appreciation for the updates, and looks forward to further updates, especially at the start of construction.
2) Takahashi heard that the Mililani and Mililani Mauka Neighborhood Boards Nos. 25 and 25 (NB#25 and NB#35), respectively, joined together to try and stop the development in the Gentry-Waiawa area. Liu responded that it may only be the NB#25 that opposes the project, and they only oppose until the Oahu Regional Transportation Plan 2030 can be reassessed; NB#35 has not yet taken a position on the project. Liu relayed the main concerns of those Boards: traffic problems and that the infrastructure (such as schools) required to support the development be done first; they are trying to address these concerns.
The agenda was resumed.
PRESENTATIONS (2):
STATE PANDEMIC FLU PLAN Marcia Nagao, from the State Department of Health's (DOH) Disease Outbreak Control Division, circulated handouts with website links and a pandemic flu planning checklist and gave the following PowerPoint presentation, emphasizing the following points:
1) Influenza Is it seasonal, avian or pandemic? Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus; there are three (3) types and many subtypes. The flu viruses change from year to year: (a) a minor change (drift), which may cause seasonal epidemics; and (b) a major change (shift), which may cause a worldwide epidemic/pandemic.
2) Seasonal influenza is a public health problem every year and spreads easily from person to person. At the highest risk for complications are: (a) adults 65+ years; (b) those with chronic disease or immune system problems; and (c) infants/children five or less years. The best way to prevent the flu is vaccination.
3) Avian influenza is caused by bird influenza viruses. Wild birds worldwide carry influenza viruses in their intestines; it also infects domesticated birds, such as chickens, ducks or turkeys. H5N1 is a strain of the bird flu that is endemic in Asia and has recently spread to Africa and Europe it causes severe and sometimes fatal disease among some species of birds, although it rarely causes human infection, since it would require very close contact with infected poultry. Worldwide, there have been approximately 200 cases of avian flu in humans, and approximately 50% of those infected died.
4) Pandemic influenza is a global disease outbreak, which occurs when a new influenza virus appears in the human population that causes serious illness and spreads easily from person to person. Up to one-third of the population could become ill, with approximately two (2) to 7.5 million deaths, and large numbers of people needing or seeking medical care. High rates of work absenteeism could disrupt essential services, such as law enforcement, transportation, etc. A second wave of infection could occur within a year. The opportunity for inter-state or inter-country assistance will stop once international spread begins.
5) Influenza pandemics of the 20th century include: (a) in 1918, the "Spanish Flu" (H1N1) caused 20 to 40 million deaths total, with 675,000 U.S. deaths; (b) in 1957, the "Asian Flu" (H2N2) caused one to four million deaths, with 70,000 U.S. deaths; and (c) in 1968, the "Hong Kong Flu" (H3N2) caused one to four million deaths, with 34,000 U.S. deaths.
6) Critical issues on the State level are: (a) influenza surveillance; (b) pandemic vaccine delayed, antivirals limited, prioritization of those in need; (c) social distancing/quarantine/isolation; (d) collaboration and communication; (e) supplies/resources/manpower; and (f) security.
7) For community-wide consideration are: (a) social disruption may be widespread; (b) being able to work may be difficult or impossible; (c) basic supplies and medications may be limited; (d) schools may be closed for an extended period; and (e) transportation services may be limited.
8) It's everyone's responsibility to: (a) get informed; (b) be prepared; and (c) stay healthy. Then, everyone can work together to protect the health and safety of those serving you and those you serve, limit the negative impact to society and economy, and maintain essential services.
9) To get informed: (a) communicate with family, staff, persons in the community; (b) find current and reliable information; (c) share information with others; and (d) facilitate effective communication and education during a pandemic.
10) To get prepared: (a) determine the potential impacts; (b) develop plans to prepare; (c) assign specific responsibilities now; and (d) test your plan.
11) To stay healthy: (a) cover your coughs and sneezes; (b) wash hands using waterless or alcohol-based hand cleaners if water and soap isn't available; (c) ensure access to health care and psychological support; (d) get vaccinated against seasonal flu yearly; (e) ensure supply of regular medications and take them as prescribed; and (f) practice social distancing now stay home when ill.
12) Summary points: (a) seasonal flu viruses are a public health problem every year, spread easily from person to person, and have a vaccine available for prevention; (b) the avian flu (H5N1) has had a devastatingly global outbreak in poultry, with severe but rare human infections, does not spread easily from person to person, and is not in the U.S. at this time; (c) pandemic flu viruses appear in the human population periodically, and although H5N1 is a likely candidate, it's not a pandemic virus yet; (d) a flu pandemic with significant health, social and economic impact is possible; and (e) everyone must take responsibility.
13) Sources of information: (a) questions for DOH fluinfo@doh.hawaii.gov; (b) DOH http://www.hawaii.gov/health/family-child-health/contagious-disease/communications/pandemicflu.html; (c) Centers for Disease Control & Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic/; (d) U.S. government http://www.pandemicflu.gov/; and (e) World Health Organization http://www.who.int/topics/influenza/en/.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Chair Fukushima thanked Nagao and Parker for attending the meeting and asked when the testing for these viruses will begin, how, and where the results will be analyzed. Nagao replied that there is already a network of physicians constantly monitoring, and the results will be analyze at the State lab in Pearl City.
2) Howton inquired if there have been any documented cases of the bird flu being transmitted from person to person. Nagao responded that cases have occurred in southeast Asia with close and constant exposure. Howton asked if the real danger is the occurrence of a mutation which would ready the easy transmittal of the virus from person to person; Nagao confirmed this.
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA INSTALLATION BY VERIZON WIRELESS AT PEARL CITY DISTRICT PARK Matt Miura distributed handouts of pictures and letters discussing the safety of antennas, and highlighted the following information from his PowerPoint presentation: The antenna will be located on top of an existing light pole at the park, with the equipment shelter placed nearby. The existing pole is 52 feet high, and the antenna (in a cylindrical canister) will add two feet onto the pole and will be painted the same color to blend with the pole. The equipment shelter is located far enough in to not affect the use of the ballfield; it will be located on the south side or Komo Mai Drive side of the park. The equipment shelter will be made of concrete and fenced in; it will be next to an existing walk/driveway, tucked in near the trees. It's planned to add more shrubs around the site to make it more visually pleasing.
1) Howton asked how many of the other light poles have antennas. Miura replied that none do.
2) Takahashi inquired if there would be just one antenna installed. Miura clarified that the cylindrical canister will contain three antennas to provide good coverage.
3) Chair Fukushima noted that there are few other antennas nearby one at the nearby park and one at the nearby school. Miura responded that the antenna at the park has not yet been filed for, and the Sprint antenna at the school is on a 35-foot pole in the physical education area.
4) Frank Kobayashi voiced the opinion that the suggested location for the antenna is a bad choice. He expressed concern over the possible radiation from the antennas, especially with ballgames, and the schools and community center nearby. Kobayashi urged Verizon to choose a more secluded location.
5) Takahashi commented that although cellular antennas don't emit as much radiation as a radio or a television, more antennas equal more radiation. He's opposed to the project because of residents' concerns. Duncan agreed with these concerns.
6) Mahro Madrid, Jr. agreed with Kobayashi's concerns and inquired about the effect of these antennas on health. Miura answered that, as long as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines are followed, then the antenna is safe. The level will be 100 watts from the site, and a television operates with much higher radiation; the radiation from a television compared to a cellular antenna is about a 100:5 ratio.
7) Furutani asked how far the "dangerous area" extends around the antenna. Miura responded that a 10-foot radius around the antenna should be kept clear, and added that with the planned setup, no one will be able to be less than 10 feet from the antenna.
Development, Planning and Zoning (DPZ) Committee Chair Furutani moved, on behalf of the committee, that the Board recommend approval of the Verizon Wireless's request for a Conditional Use Permit to install a telecommunications antenna at Pearl City District Park. Unanimous consent was used to add the conditions on approval of the permit that: (a) the color scheme matches the environment; and (b) Verizon Wireless informs the Board when they will begin to build.
The motion that the Board recommend approval of the Verizon Wireless's request for a Conditional Use Permit to install a telecommunications antenna at Pearl City District Park, with the conditions that: (a) the color scheme matches the environment; and (b) Verizon Wireless informs the Board when they will begin to build, was ADOPTED 7-2-1 (Aye: Howton, Fukuda, Fukushima, Furutani, Imamura-Uruu, Nyuha, Vina; No: Duncan, Takahashi; Abstain: Pickard).
STATE HEALTH PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY (SHPDA) CERTIFICATE OF NEED (CON) APPLICATION FOR THE PACIFIC ENDOSCOPY CENTER AT 1029 MAKOLU STREET (AT KUALA STREET) Chair Fukushima explained that there will be more businesses there and doctors need to move from Pali Momi. He referred to the draft letter circulated to the Board members recommending that SHPDA approve plans for this endoscopy center.
Unanimous consent (10-0-0) was used to ADOPT a motion to send the draft letter recommending SHPDA approve plans for the endoscopy center.
A recess was taken from 8:00 p.m. to 8:14 p.m. for refreshments.
When the meeting resumed, the agenda was taken out of order to hear the Board of Water Supply report, since the Nextel representative wasn't quite ready to give the presentation.
COMMUNITY REPORTS (1):
BOARD OF WATER SUPPLY (BWS) Lan Yoneda circulated information about the BWS rate increase and reported the following:
1) There were four eight-inch main breaks in April: (a) 1603 Kaweloka Street; (b) 2287 Auhuhu Street; (c) 1778 Hoowae Street; and (d) 1637 Kaweloka Street.
2) BWS rates are among the nation's lowest and haven't risen in nearly 11 years. At the same time, the costs of providing service have grown steeply electrical power, construction materials, fuel and labor costs continue to rise. For more information about the rate increases, call 748-5311.
3) There is a project to replace the mains on Nanakai Street from Waimano Home Road to Hoomalu Street. This will also include Nanakai Place, Puukipa Street, and Hooheke Street in Waiau between Hookaniki and Hooia Streets. The project entails the installation of an eight-inch water main, fire hydrants and appurtenances along the streets mentioned above. This project will reduce breaks and increase fire protection and water service for the area. The lowest bid was $1.232 million. The community will be informed when construction is scheduled.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Pickard questioned the cause of these main breaks so close together. Yoneda explained that the breaks are a combination of old pipes, soil conditions and metal corrosion.
2) Howton asked if BWS is aware of the rumor that tap water is poisoned. Yoneda will inform the Community Relations Division of the rumor and will follow up; he added that next month, BWS will be sending out their annual water quality report with the water bills.
3) Takahashi requested the average cost of repairing main break damage, and inquired if the cost shows up on people's water bills. Yoneda estimated that a small main break in a residential area may cost $10,000 to $20,000 to repair, and a big main break in downtown Honolulu may cost $50,000 to $75,000. Money for repairs is provided for in the budget.
4) Furutani asked where Pearl City gets its water. Yoneda answered that Pearl City uses a few wells: (a) Waiau/Newtown; (b) Kuala Road; and (c) Waimano Home Road. Chair Fukushima inquired if that water went to Hawaii Kai when the wells were initially drilled. Yoneda wasn't sure; he stated that Pearl City has an abundance of water in its aquifer.
The agenda was taken out of order again to hear the Manana Warehouse Parcels agenda item, since the Nextel representative wasn't quite ready to give the presentation.
RESIDENTS CONCERNS (2):
SALE OF REMAINING MANANA WAREHOUSE PARCELS, KUALA STREET Dr. Melvin Wong gave a brief background of the situation. Many doctors have problems at Pali Momi: there's not enough space for them and they don't receive new equipment. They've been trying to purchase this parcel on Kuala Street for five to six months, but have been "stonewalled". Dr. Wong noted how hard it is to find a place for the doctors.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Chair Fukushima stated that the property is advertised as being for sale, and he doesn't understand why the company selling it would tell potential buyers that it's not for sale. He asked if the City wants to sell this property or not. Vina has worked on finding information on the company selling the property for the City, but has not been successful.
Chair Fukushima directed the DPZ Committee to research this issue and report back to the Board.
2) Isaac Hokama, the Mayor's representative, thanked Pickard for making him aware of this situation; he discovered that Parcel D is available and has given Dr. Wong the direct phone number to the person in the City's Department of Corporation Counsel (COR) handling the sale. Hokama stressed that the City wants to sell this parcel; he will follow up.
3) Pickard wondered what the Board can do, since the medical group hasn't yet purchased the land. Dr. Wong responded that he wants advice and suggestions on how the facility can serve the community better.
4) Chair Fukushima suggested the Board also find out what's happening with the other two Manana warehouse parcels sold (one to Public Storage and one to CompUSA). Hokama will follow up.
The agenda was resumed.
PRESENTATIONS (3):
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR A TELECOMMUNICATIONS ANTENNA INSTALLATION BY NEXTEL PARTNERS, INC. AT 819 LEHUA AVENUE Carl Young circulated handouts, and emphasized the following points from his PowerPoint presentation: First, they look for a commercially zoned property to install the antenna, and A-2 (apartment) allows for antenna sites too. The location of 819 Lehua Avenue is available. The equipment shelter will be 12 by 18 feet, which will include a generator. The monopole will hold six six-foot panel antennas. The location has a banyan tree, which is approximately 100 feet tall, so the antenna would only need to just stick out over the top of the tree. Originally, they had planned to remove the tree, but have now just decided to place the antenna and equipment shelter under the tree canopy. The landlord of 819 Lehua Avenue has concerns about the current large amount of illegal activities in the bottom shielded parts of the banyan tree, and so would like Nextel to have a fenced-in equipment shelter there, to put a stop to the illegal activities. The site is very close to the Pearl Harbor historic trail but does fall within the eight-foot distance requirement from the trail (it's over 15 feet away). The community benefits from improved service, which could prove very useful in an emergency. With the antenna installed, there will be a global positioning system (GPS) capability to find people if they are lost or disoriented, or during a natural disaster.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Nyuha noted that, at the Committees' meeting, Young reported that the banyan tree was to be removed. Young explained that only one-sixth of the tree is on the landlord's property, so they can't remove it. Pickard asked if they intend to remove that one-sixth of the tree; Young affirmed this. Chair Fukushima expressed concern that a portion of the tree would need to be removed, especially since the Aiea NB#20 opposes the idea. Young answered that parts must be cleared to make room for the shelter and generator. Imamura-Uruu suggested that Nextel would be doing the area a favor by eliminating the area where the illegal activities occur; Young agreed.
2) Pickard stated that Nextel should survey other locations for their antenna site. Young replied that they tried to work with Lehua Nani School, but their legal situation forced them to look elsewhere.
3) Pickard pointed out that the equipment shelter and antenna are ugly pieces of machinery, and he would like to keep Pearl City associated with historical places.
4) Chair Fukushima confirmed with Young that the antenna would be 10 feet above the 100-foot tree.
5) Imamura-Uruu inquired if the tree will eventually grow to cover the antenna. Young responded that every tree has a height limit, and this banyan tree has most likely topped out at 100 feet.
6) Chair Fukushima asked if there would be a fence surrounding the shelter; Young answered that the fence would be made of chain-link. Chair Fukushima pointed out that the fence will also mitigate illegal activities.
7) Takahashi inquired if Young notified everyone in the area; Young assured him that he did, even though it's not required. Young continued to relate that the State Department of Education (DOE) endorses antennas on schools.
8) Bob Loy, from the Outdoor Circle, was contacted by the Board to look into this matter. The Outdoor Circle is not against cell phones or technology, but they don't want a historical tree removed. Loy asked Young if the tree has been assessed by a certified arborist; Young responded that it hasn't. Loy disclosed that only a certified arborist can tell what part of the tree is on what property. He stated that there are numerous reasons that this antenna installation is a bad idea, including that it's not appropriate for the Pearl Harbor historic trail area. The Outdoor Circle will oppose tree removal and will caution Nextel about possibly damaging the tree, especially since parts may belong to the public.
9) Chair Fukushima related that he's asked the applicant to look at the project again, to work with the Outdoor Circle on this issue.
Pickard moved that the Board take no position on the installation of a telecommunications antenna at 819 Lehua Avenue by Nextel Partners, Inc. Chair Fukushima ruled the motion OUT OF ORDER because the same thing could be accomplished by adopting no motion at all.
Vina moved, and Imamura-Uruu seconded, that the Board does not support Nextel Partners, Inc.'s application for a Conditional Use Permit to install a telecommunications antenna at 819 Lehua Avenue, and, based on the uncertainty of the tree ownership, the applicant should look for another site, which was ADOPTED 9-1-0 (Aye: Duncan, Fukuda, Fukushima, Howton, Imamura-Uruu, Nyuha, Pickard, Takahashi, Vina; No: Furutani).
COMMUNITY REPORTS (2):
PEARL CITY LIBRARY Pickard relayed the following announcements:
1) Effective July, the library will be open six days per week, from Sunday to Friday (closed on Saturday).
2) On Monday, June 12, at 6 p.m., the young adult summer reading program kicks off. There are six weeks of rewards for those entering the seventh grade to their freshman year in college.
3) On Tuesday, June 13, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., there will be folk dancing open to everyone. The program is suitable for all ages and is free. Door prizes will be provided.
No representatives were present to give the Leeward Community College and Board of Education updates.
RESIDENTS CONCERNS (3):
PEARL CITY AREA PARKS AND RECREATION PROJECTS Councilmember Okino covered this earlier.
WAL-MART/SAM'S CLUB GAS STATION CONSTRUCTION UPDATE Donohue Fujii gave the following updates:
1) Outlot No. 1 has been subdivided for Central Pacific Bank and a Wendy's. Construction should start in June or July of this year.
2) Outlot No. 2 is a retail building, and seven businesses have already signed leases: Starbucks, Jamba Juice, Kozo, Nextel, a nail/skin salon, L&L Drive-In, and Panda Express. This is where the doctors are requesting space for their facility.
3) Outlots Nos. 2 and 3 will be consolidated into the gas station property. Construction should begin in August or September of this year, and the gas station should be open in late 2006 or early 2007.
4) They are still awaiting approval of Phases 3 and 4 from the State Department of Transportation (DOT).
Chair Fukushima urged that the remaining phases (road improvements) be completed before the opening of the gas station to ready the area for the traffic.
Vina moved, and Takahashi seconded, to write a letter to Wal-Mart recommending the completion of Phases 2, 3 and 4 before the opening of the gas station.
Takahashi raised a point of order that the letter should also be sent to the legislators. Chair Fukushima ruled that the point of order was invalid, since no rule was being broken, but that it's a good idea to send the legislators copies of the letter.
Unanimous consent was used AMEND by including a recommendation that DOT approve the applications.
The motion, as amended, to write a letter to Wal-Mart recommending the completion of Phases 2, 3 and 4 before the opening of the gas station, including a recommendation that DOT approve the applications, was ADOPTED 9-0-1 (Aye: Fukuda, Fukushima, Furutani, Howton, Imamura-Uruu, Nyuha, Pickard, Takahashi, Vina; Abstain: Duncan).
H-1 VIADUCT WIDENING Scott Ishikawa distributed pictures of the H-1 Freeway and the intersection of Kamehameha Highway and Honomanu Street, and conveyed the following:
1) Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Improvements They've made headway on the plans for the right-turn lane going up Acacia Road. He reminded everyone that once DOT accepts the plans, they're responsible for any problems. The two intersections with Kamehameha Highway there, Waimano Home Road and Acacia Road, are very close together and DOT must ensure that the traffic flows on Kamehameha Highway.
2) The H-1 widening is anticipated to finish in June. On June 2 and 3, the westbound H-1 freeway from where the freeway splits to the Pearl City off-ramp will be closed from 9:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. The second freeway sign will go up soon.
3) The repairs at the intersection of Kamehameha Highway (townbound) and Honomanu Street have been delayed, but will be completed soon.
Chair Fukushima noted that the sign indicating the freeway closure is incomplete; Ishikawa will follow up.
PEARL CITY VIADUCT DOT PEARL CITY BASE YARD DEWATERING FACILITY Scott Ishikawa circulated informational brochures on dewatering facilities and imparted the following: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated stricter policies for cleaning storm drains, including street-sweeping every five weeks. DOT has made a space under the viaduct to provide space for items pulled out of the drains to dry, since wet items can't be taken to a landfill. The base yard's location is ideal for this dewatering facility, since it's as far as possible from people and is in a covered area. This new facility will be similar to the one in Ahuimanu and the construction date is set for the end of 2007.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Chair Fukushima inquired about the presence of flies and decay. Ishikawa responded that the drying space will be slightly set into the ground, to protect the drying debris from the wind.
2) Imamura-Uruu asked if they have started removing the cars from the "chop shop" there. Ishikawa confirmed this and added that they will put extra concrete barriers to prevent a reoccurrence.
3) Nyuha inquired about the composition of the waste matter at dewatering facilities. Ishikawa explained that a great deal of it is sand, sediment and runoff, although there may be oil and other items, since people just seem to dump anything into storm drains; there should be no waste material or sewage. Nyuha asked who would be monitoring the area; Ishikawa noted that it's fenced in, but he will follow up.
4) Pickard asked about the length of the drying process. Ishikawa replied that it takes about a week, or two to three days if the weather is good.
5) Pickard inquired about who DOT invited to the meeting on this new dewatering facility. Ishikawa answered that they invited everyone in the area, but only Robert Sato from Councilmember Okino's office attended.
6) Pickard thanked DOT for finally paving the area by Forty-Niners.
7) Chair Fukushima requested that Ishikawa give an update when the project develops. Ishikawa agreed.
HAWAII REGIONAL BIO-SAFETY LABORATORY TASK FORCE UPDATE Pickard stated that there were no representatives at the Committees' meeting and none tonight, and it is upsetting him. He would like to put the issue to rest, since no money was allocated by the legislature to put the lab at Waimano Ridge. Chair Fukushima assented to removing the item from the agenda, and added that if the issue does not resurface, then it's "dead".
WAIMANO RIDGE MASTER PLAN UPDATE Chair Fukushima reported that the current target date for the submission of the Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) to the DOH is in September, so this item may be taken off the agenda for now. (Vina later emailed this revised schedule to be incorporated into the minutes: (a) Publication of Final Master Plan Report July 15, 2006; (b) Publication of Draft EA September 23, 2006; (c) Public Comment Period for Draft EA September 23 to October 23, 2006; (d) Final EA and Tentative Issuance of the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) December 23, 2006.)
SPORTSMEN LOUNGE Chair Fukushima relayed that the earliest date for a hearing for the non-renewal of the Sportsmen Lounge liquor license is May 25 or June 1. He cautioned the Board to not make any recommendations on this issue, because it's a landlord-tenant issue; however, Board members may make comments as individuals. Pickard will coordinate with the Honolulu Liquor Commission (LIQ) to keep the Board updated.
ELECTED OFFICIALS (2):
GOVERNOR'S REPRESENTATIVE Claire Nakamura distributed handouts and reported the following:
1) The University of Hawaii's (UH) position on the Regional Bio-Safety Lab is that Waimano Ridge is unsuitable due to the amount of infrastructure repair necessary; instead, Kakaako is a better site. The legislature gave $7 to $8 million for it, and the lab must be operational by 2010 to keep the $25 million from the federal government to make the lab.
2) The Homeless Program Administrator of the Housing and Community Development Corporation of Hawaii (HCDCH), Sandra Miyoshi, is out of town, but would be happy to give a presentation at the June meeting.
3) Governor Lingle signed three bills into law dedicating over $40 million to help end homelessness and increase the availability of affordable housing.
4) Gov. Lingle also signed bills that will improve Hawaii's ability to prepare for and respond to natural and man-made disasters.
5) The tax credit available for those affected by flood damage and the increase in the standard deduction will be effective for 2007. Hawaii has advanced from the second worst to fifth worst state in taxing the poor.
Questions, comments and concerns followed:
1) Pickard questioned when the hazardous materials (such as propane tanks) would be removed from Waimano Ridge. Nakamura will follow up.
2) Chair Fukushima asked if the Regional Bio-Safety Lab Task Force will continue. Nakamura will follow up.
MAYORS REPRESENTATIVE Isaac Hokama distributed the May Mayor's Newsletter and provided the following responses to last month's questions:
1) The issue regarding the tall weeds that block the path of Lehua Elementary School students on Lehua Avenue was resolved by the property owner.
2) The area on Moanalua Road all the way to Waimano Home Road was treated with herbicide.
3) The traffic calming program on Lehua Avenue has been suspended, and the City Department of Transportation Services (DTS) is unable to install measures such as speed bumps at this time. Speeding is controlled through appropriate speed limit signage and enforcement by HPD. DTS conducted an investigation and found that the 25 mph signs on Lehua Avenue between Kamehameha Highway and Road "A" are appropriately posted. Therefore, the speeding concern was referred to HPD for their action. DTS recommends that residents continue to contact HPD for enforcement.
4) The pool use in the Pearl City area was not affected by the polluted natural waters. The City Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) does not have the resources to extend pool hours.
5) The matter of posting pictures of the various Neighborhood Boards still has not been cleared by the Managing Director's office and is pending.
Questions, comments and concerns followed (Hokama will follow up):
1) Furutani related that the crosswalk by the Pacific Palisades Community Center (Ahuhu and Akepa Streets) is very faded.
2) Takahashi expressed his appreciation for the cut grass along the Pearl Harbor bike path.
Chair Fukushima circulated Senator Clarence Nishihara's report. There were no representatives present for Sen. Nishihara, Sen. David Ige or Representative Roy Takumi.
COMMUNITY INPUT:
PACIFIC PALISADES COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION (PPCA) Pickard mentioned the garage sale signs that are left up indefinitely in the area and requested that Howton place the matter in the PPCA newsletter; Howton agreed, but noted that it's a continuing process to get people to remember to take down their signs.
APPROVAL OF THE FEBRUARY 28, MARCH 28, AND APRIL 25, 2006 REGULAR MEETING MINUTES: Chair Fukushima deferred the approval of the February 28 and March 28, 2006 minutes to next month's meeting. The April 25, 2006 minutes were approved as circulated.
APRIL 2006 TREASURER'S REPORT: Chair Fukushima indicated that the meeting mailout contained the March Treasurer's report and stated that it is filed. The Operating Account incurred expenses of $65.62, leaving a balance of $511.53, the Publicity Account incurred expenses of $191.00, leaving a balance of $288.55, and the Refreshment Account incurred no expenses, leaving a balance of $3.81.
COMMITTEE REFERRALS FOR ACTION/DEFERRAL:
EXECUTIVE Chair Fukushima imparted the following information:
1) Transfer of Board Funds: Refreshment Account to Operating Account The request to transfer Board funds ($27.36) from the Refreshment Account to the Operating Account was denied. It will be discussed at the next Committees meeting.
2) Group Photographs for Website Board picture-taking is scheduled for the next meeting on June 27; these photos will be put up on the Board's website (http://www.honolulu.gov/nco/nb21/index.htm).
3) Election of Board Officers Next month the Board must hold elections for its officers.
HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE (HEW) Committee Chair Pickard offered the following updates:
1) Homeless Problem in Pearl City He will contact Sandra Miyoshi, the Homeless Program Administrator of HCDCH, to schedule a presentation next month.
2) Pacific Palisades Community Park Additional Improvements He requested further funding for the lights in the park from Councilmember Okino earlier in the meeting. Chair Fukushima suggested that the project be added to the letter to the City Council requesting support for certain community projects.
3) Hawaii Brownfields Forum Future Participation He requested this item be taken off the agenda.
TRAFFIC AND TRANSPORTATION (TT) Committee Chair Vina highlighted the following:
1) Oahu Metropolitan Planning Organization (OMPO) Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) Report The Oahu Regional Transportation Plan 2030 has been accepted.
2) Honolulu High Capacity Transit Corridor Project Gary Omori, with the Public Involvement Team, was recognized to give this update: An engineer will attend the Committees meeting in June to give updated information on the Alternatives Analysis. Omori would like as many people as possible to attend the meeting to hear the updated presentation and offer comments. He asked how long he would have to present at the June Committees meeting. Chair Fukushima replied that the Committees meeting will be started one-half hour early, at 6:30 p.m., to allow for more time for the presentation. Omori added that ridership figures will be available next month. Howton invited everyone to read Jerry Coffee's article in the May 24, 2006 MidWeek, entitled "A Flexible Light Rail Alternative".
3) Wal-Mart/Sam's Club Community Shuttle Service He contacted Amanda Avilla, the coordinator of the proposed project, and is awaiting a response.
DEVELOPMENT, PLANNING AND ZONING (DPZ) Chair Fukushima deferred action on these agenda items.
LEGISLATIVE AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS (LCIP) Committee Chair Fukuda relayed the following information:
1) FY 2007 City Capital Improvement Project (CIP) Appropriations A draft letter to the City Council requesting support for certain community projects was circulated previously.
LCIP Committee Chair Fukuda moved, on behalf of the committee, to send the letter to City Council requesting support for certain community projects, including the lights for the Pacific Palisades Community Park, which was ADOPTED by unanimous consent (10-0-0).
2) City Charter Amendments All amendments relating to the Neighborhood Commission Office will not be placed on the ballot.
PUBLICITY/REFRESHMENTS (P/R) Committee Chair Imamura-Uruu reported the following:
1) June 2006 Yard of the Month
P/R Committee Chair Imamura-Uruu moved, on behalf of the committee, to give the June Yard of the Month Award to Herbert and Nancy Takeuchi of Kuahaka Street in Manana, which was ADOPTED by unanimous consent (10-0-0).
2) Certificates of Recognition and Acknowledgement Next month, awards need to be given to the two local children that won Judo championships.
3) Pearl City Graffiti Watch Program Pickard relayed that the Mayor has stated that the City and HPD will come down hard on graffiti artists and will provide resources to groups wanting to paint out graffiti.
4) Olelo Telecast of FY 2007 Regular Board Meetings This is the first time that Kevin Cassel has ever missed a meeting without sending a replacement. There is a new Olelo channel no. 49, and it will be verified that the Pearl City meetings will be broadcast every Thursday night.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
1) The next Committee meetings are scheduled for Tuesday, June 20, 2006, 6:30 p.m., at the Highlands Intermediate School cafeteria.
2) The next regular Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 27, 2006, 6:30 p.m., at the Highlands Intermediate School cafeteria.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 10:25 p.m.
Submitted by: Rachel M. Glanstein, Neighborhood Assistant